Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops Recipe

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Parmesan-Crusted Cajun Pork Chops

Ingredients:

• Cooking spray
• 1 large egg
• cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 2 boneless pork chops, trimmed

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Spray a baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Whisk the egg in a shallow bowl until well-beaten.
3. On a separate plate, combine the Parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning. Stir until well mixed.
4. Dip each pork chop into the egg mixture, coating it thoroughly on both sides.
5. Press the egg-coated pork chop into the Parmesan mixture, ensuring an even coating on both sides.
6. Place the coated pork chops in the prepared baking dish, arranging them in a single layer.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the pork chops are golden and an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads at least 145F (63C).

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 246
• Total Fat: 13g (16% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (25% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 161mg (54% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 459mg (20% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 1g (0% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 0g (0% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 0g
• Protein: 31g (61% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 143mg (11% Daily Value)
• Iron: 1mg (8% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 400mg (9% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Consult your doctor or a registered dietitian if following a medically restrictive diet.

Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops is a simple yet savory dish that combines the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese with tender pork chops, creating a crispy, golden crust that will impress anyone at the dinner table. While this dish may seem like a modern culinary invention, its roots can be traced back to European traditions where cheese and breading have long been used to add flavor and texture to meats.

History and Origins

The Parmesan Crusted Pork Chop is a perfect fusion of Italian and American cuisine. Parmesan cheese, or Parmigiano-Reggiano, originates from Italy, where it has been made for over 900 years. The technique of breading and frying or baking meats with cheese is popular in various cultures, especially in Italy, where dishes like Cotoletta alla Milanese (breaded veal cutlets) are staples. The idea of crusting pork chops with cheese likely evolved as Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the United States, adapting them to local ingredients like pork. Over time, this dish gained popularity across American households, especially as an easy weeknight meal option.

Regional Variations

While the base recipe for Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops remains consistent, there are numerous regional variations depending on local preferences. In the United States, Cajun seasoning is often added to the Parmesan crust for an extra layer of flavor. This variation is particularly popular in Southern and Creole cooking, where bold and spicy flavors are favored. In Italy, some versions of this dish might incorporate different cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or add herbs like basil or oregano to the breadcrumb mixture. Additionally, in some regions, the pork chops may be pan-fried instead of baked to achieve a different texture, though baking is a more common method for this particular recipe.

What Sets It Apart

While there are many dishes that feature breaded or crusted meats, the key difference in Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops lies in the use of Parmesan cheese as the primary crust ingredient. The nutty, umami flavor of the cheese enhances the pork, making it stand out from other breaded dishes like Chicken Parmesan or Chicken Fried Steak, which use marinara sauce or gravy as part of their flavor profile. Unlike typical breaded pork chops, which may rely on breadcrumbs alone, the addition of Parmesan provides a rich depth of flavor and a delightful crispiness.

Where Its Served

Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops are versatile enough to be served in a variety of settings. This dish is commonly enjoyed at family dinners, especially as an easy weeknight meal, but its also suitable for more formal occasions. It can be served alongside a variety of side dishes, from mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables to pasta or a crisp salad. In Italian-American restaurants, you may find a version of this dish alongside spaghetti or in a Parmesan-style platter with marinara sauce. Its ease of preparation and comfort-food appeal also make it a popular choice for meal prepping and entertaining guests.

Interesting Facts

• The word "Parmesan" is a protected name in Italy, reserved for cheese made in specific regions using traditional methods. However, in many countries, the term is used more broadly to describe any cheese similar in flavor and texture.
• Parmesan cheese is known for its high umami content, which is the fifth basic taste (after sweet, sour, salty, and bitter). This contributes to its ability to enhance the flavor of almost any dish.
• In 2019, the U.S. Department of Agriculture classified the recommended safe cooking temperature for pork as 145F (63C), which is the perfect temperature to ensure the pork chops are both safe to eat and juicy when making Parmesan Crusted Pork Chops.

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